Name: Sid A.
Position: Events manager
Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne
Dream destination: Corsica
Drink or treat of choice: A Stone & Wood Pacific Ale is my go-to drink
In the six years that Sid has been at Marriott, he has worked for three different hotels from three different brands in two different states in Australia. Before becoming an Events Manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne, Sid got his start at Marriott with a line level role in the banquet department at W Brisbane. After that experience he moved to Port Douglas, in the paradisiacal and tropical far north of Queensland, where he worked his way up to Food and Beverage Duty Manager and started focusing more on learning the events planning side of the business.
It was thanks to those previous experiences and the learning opportunities Marriott offered Sid that when the Events Manager position opened up at The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne, he felt ready to apply with confidence.
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“As a mentee, I was fortunate to connect with a senior leader early in my career. They provided guidance on navigating challenges and offered insights into strategic thinking. Their encouragement helped me build confidence in my decision-making abilities,” Sid recalls.
Today, on the other side, he’s using that experience to become an inspiring leader like the one he had when he was starting out. “I’ve also had the chance to mentor new team members, and this experience has been incredibly rewarding. It not only allowed me to share my knowledge but also deepened my understanding of our industry and refreshed my own perspectives. Watching my mentees grow and succeed has made me realize how important support and collaboration are in our field.”
Everything happens for a reason, as they say, and for Sid, it was having those previous roles that taught him the essential skills to become a great event planner: “Communication, adaptability, and continuous learning,” he says.
Keep reading to learn Sid’s best advice for new associates or those who are about to start their careers at Marriott, in his own words below:
After six years of experience, what would you say to incoming Marriott associates?
Here are a few pieces of advice:
- Embrace the Culture: Marriott has a strong culture centered around service and teamwork. Immerse yourself in that culture, and don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek help from your colleagues.
- Build Relationships: Networking is key. Get to know your peers across departments, as building these relationships can lead to valuable support and opportunities down the line.
- Be Proactive: Take the initiative to seek out learning opportunities and new projects. Showing enthusiasm and willingness to learn will set you apart.
- Focus on Guest Experience: Always keep the guest experience in mind. Understanding and anticipating guests’ needs can make a significant difference in their stay and in your role.
- Seek Feedback: Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback from your managers and colleagues. Constructive criticism is a valuable tool for personal and professional growth.
- Stay Open-Minded: Be adaptable and open to new ideas. The hospitality industry is ever evolving, and being flexible will help you thrive.
Could you share a moment when you felt like part of a community at Marriott?
One moment stands out. During a team-building event, we participated in a charity drive where each department contributed to assembling care packages for local families in need. As we worked side by side, sharing stories and laughter, it felt like we were more than just colleagues—we were a united team focused on a common purpose. It was a powerful reminder of how our efforts can create a positive impact, both within our team and in the broader community.
And a time when you felt supported?
Yeah, during a particularly busy season we were short-staffed. I was feeling overwhelmed with my responsibilities, and it was clear that the team was under pressure. A colleague from another department noticed I was struggling and stepped in to help. They took on some of my tasks, allowing me to focus on critical areas without feeling stretched out too thin. Not only did this lighten my load, but it also demonstrated the culture of support that Marriott fosters.
Anything you would like to add? What did we miss?
Remember, every day is a chance to learn and grow, so make the most of your time at Marriott!
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